Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. 2 This is what the ancients were commended for. Hebrews11:1-2
Having faith becomes harder and harder as we grow older. Faith comes easily to children who trust easily and fully but it seems that as time goes by faith is eroded by disappointments, unmet expectations and modern day scepticism.
In a modern day world where expedience, "scientific fact", self-centeredness and convenience are the order of the day, faith is often questioned, criticised and maligned.
But right at the outset of his excursus on faith the writer of Hebrews indicates that we can look at others who have stayed faithful and learn from their example. In devs that follow we'll look at the Abrahams, Josephs and other faithful saints.
For now I simply want to pause at the idea that our faith has a firm foundation in its historicity. We can look back at the ancients: Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Augustine, Luther, Wesley, our grand-parents and parents.
In my own life I can look back to a grandfather who read the scriptures at the dining room table and faced crippling arthritis with courage and faith. I look to parents and a sibling who have lived out their faith with principle and with dedication. I have in-law parents and grandparents who have done the same. I've been blessed with friends who courageously remain faith-full.
In a world that is doubtful and sceptical and where modern day revisionism throws babies out with bathwater, I am grateful for the legacy of faith that I have been given.
Maybe you can prepare for Sunday by examining the legacy of faith in your own life. Give thanks to God for those in your life who have shown you the way.
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Theo Groeneveld theo@emmanuel.org.za
You can see past EmmDevs at http://emmdev.blogspot.com/
